Hybrid Faucet Assembly

ABSTRACT

A hybrid faucet assembly configured to operate in a touchless, hands-free automatic mode and a manual mode comprises a faucet body; a faucet spout; a first manual flow control valve connected to a cold water source; a second manual flow control valve connected to a hot water source; an electromechanical valve connected to a cold water source or to both a cold water source and a hot water source; a flow director; a controller; and an activator device. The hybrid faucet assembly may comprise an override mechanism to disable an automatic mode during operation of a manual mode.

The disclosure relates generally to faucets. More particularly, thedisclosure relates to a hybrid faucet assembly including a touch-freemode and a mechanical manual mode.

BACKGROUND

Faucets have the capability to deliver hot water, cold water, or ahot/cold water mixture from a water source (e.g., tap or well water).Faucets may be mechanically controlled or electronically controlled. Ahybrid faucet for residential bathroom use, having an ability to beoperated in a touchless “hands-free” mode as well as a traditionalmanual mode is desired.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, disclosed is a faucet assembly comprising a faucet body; afaucet spout; a first manual flow control valve; a second manual flowcontrol valve; an electromechanical valve; a flow director; acontroller; and an activator device, wherein the first manual flowcontrol valve is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold watersource and the flow director, and to deliver cold water to the faucetspout, the second flow control valve is configured to be fluidlyconnected to a hot water source and the flow director, and to deliverhot water to the faucet spout, the electromechanical valve is configuredto be fluidly connected to a cold water source and the flow director,the electromechanical valve, the controller, and the activator deviceare configured to be in electrical communication, and the controller isconfigured to receive a signal from the activator device indicating ithas been activated, and to send a signal to the electromechanical valveto open to deliver cold water to the faucet spout.

A faucet assembly may be configured to be independently operated in amanual mode via operation the first and/or second manual flow controlvalves, and to be independently operated in an automatic mode viaoperation of the electromechanical valve.

A faucet assembly may comprise a temperature control assembly comprisinga temperature adjuster, wherein the temperature control assembly isconfigured to be fluidly connected to a cold water source and to a hotwater source, the temperature control assembly is fluidly connected tothe electromechanical valve, the electromechanical valve is configuredto deliver a hot/cold water mixture to the faucet spout, and thetemperature adjuster is configured to adjust a ratio of hot water andcold water in the hot/cold water mixture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not by way oflimitation in the accompanying figures. For simplicity and clarity ofillustration, features illustrated in the figures are not necessarilydrawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some features may beexaggerated relative to other features for clarity. Further, whereconsidered appropriate, reference labels have been repeated among thefigures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a faucet assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 provides a schematic diagram of a faucet assembly, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 3A through FIG. 3L provide schematic diagrams illustrating varioussettings for a temperature control assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of a faucet assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of a manifold of a faucet assembly ofFIG. 4A, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a faucet assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B show views of a faucet assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B show views of a faucet assembly, according to someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows faucet assembly 100, according to some embodiments. Asillustrated in FIG. 1 , the faucet assembly 100 may be installed on asurface or deck 101. Deck 101 may be, for example, a vanity surface orother countertop surface. In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 maybe installed on deck 101 in a bathroom, a kitchen, a laundry room, orthe like. When installed, faucet assembly 100 includes several featuresthat are disposed above deck 101. Faucet assembly 100 includes faucetbody 102. Faucet body 102 includes faucet spout 103. Faucet spout 103provides an outlet via which water is delivered by faucet assembly 100.

Faucet assembly 100 includes first handle 104 h and second handle 105 h.First handle 104 h is a cold water handle for turning on/off cold waterand second handle 105 h is a hot water handle for turning on/off hotwater. First handle 104 h is positioned on first handle body 104 b.First manual flow control valve 106 is positioned within first handlebody 104 b. Second handle 105 h is positioned on second handle body 105b. Second manual flow control valve 107 is disposed within second handlebody 105 b.

First manual flow control valve 106 may be connected to a cold watersource and second manual flow control valve 107 may be connected to ahot water source. In some embodiments, first manual flow control valve106 and second manual flow control valve 107 include an opened state anda closed state. In some embodiments, an opened state may include a fullyopened state and a partially opened state (alternatively an intermediatestate). For example, an opened state may include any degree of openingof first manual flow control valve 106 or second manual flow controlvalve 107 that would allow water to flow therethrough. A closed stateprevents water from flowing therethrough. First manual flow controlvalve 106 and second manual flow control valve 107 may be adjusted (viathe first handle 104 h and the second handle 105 h, respectively) sothat a flow rate of the water is adjusted. In addition to adjusting aflow rate of water, a relative opening of first manual flow controlvalve 106 and second manual flow control valve 107 may in turn determinea temperature of water dispensed based on a mixing of water from a coldwater source and a hot water source.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 may be referred to as a spread,or wide-spread faucet assembly as faucet body 102, first handle body 104b, and second handle body 105 b are separate bodies spaced apart fromeach other when installed on deck 101.

Faucet assembly 100 includes several features disposed below deck 101.Faucet assembly 100 includes controller 108. In some embodiments,controller 108 may include a detection circuit (not shown) where amicrocomputer (not shown), programs (not shown), and the like areembedded. When a signal according to operation is transmitted to adetection circuit (not shown), a signal processed at the detectioncircuit (not shown) is output to electrically open and closeelectromechanical flow control valve 109, for example a solenoid valve.In some embodiments, controller 108 may be electrically connected to apower source such as, but not limited to, a battery. In someembodiments, a power source may be hardwired to an electrical system ofthe building in which faucet assembly 100 is installed. As such, a powersource may alternatively be an alternating current (AC) power source. Insome embodiments, controller 108 may be in wired or wirelesscommunication with electromechanical valve 109.

Electromechanical valve 109 includes an opened state and a closed state.In some embodiments, electromechanical flow control valve 109 mayinclude a partially opened state. In some embodiments, electromechanicalvalve 109 may be an electromechanical flow control valve.Electromechanical valve 109 may be selectively placed in an opened orclosed state based on a signal or instruction from controller 108. Insome embodiments, electromechanical valve 109 may be a magneticelectromechanical valve. It is to be appreciated that other electronicvalves capable of being electronically actuated to control a state ofthe flow therethrough are possible. In some embodiments,electromechanical valve 109 may be designed such that a flowrate ofwater is provided when valve 109 is preset. In some embodiments,electromechanical valve 109 may be designed to include a partiallyopened state that varies so that a flowrate of water may be controlled.It is to be appreciated that a flowrate of water is also dependent onfactors such as, but not limited to, water pressure at a location of theinstallation of faucet assembly 100.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 includes flow director 110.Flow director 110 includes flow inlets 111, 112, and 113, and flowoutlet 114. Flow inlet 111 is fluidly connected to manual flow controlvalve 106. Flow inlet 112 is fluidly connected to manual flow controlvalve 107. Flow inlet 113 is fluidly connected to a cold water source.Electromechanical flow control valve 109 is fluidly connected to a coldwater source and flow inlet 113.

Fluid line 115 is fluidly connected to flow outlet 114 and faucet spout103. Faucet assembly 100 is configured to provide water from a coldwater source, a hot water source, or a mixture thereof, via the flowoutlet 114, fluid line 115, and faucet spout 103. In some embodiments,fluid line 115 may be a flexible conduit that may extend through faucetbody 102 to faucet spout 103.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 includes activator device 116in electrical communication with electromechanical valve 109 andcontroller 108. In some embodiments, activator device 116 is configuredto control valve 109 between an opened state and a closed state (or apartially opened state) via a detection circuit in controller 108. Insome embodiments, activator device 116 may be positioned on or in faucetbody 102. In some embodiments, activator device 116 may be positioned onor in first handle body 104 b, on or in second handle body 105 b, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, activator device 116 maycommunicate via a wired communication or a wireless communication withcontroller 108.

In some embodiments, activator device 116 includes a sensor. In someembodiments, activator device 116 includes a sensor configured to detectmotion, presence of an object, absence of an object, sound, temperaturechanges, light, electromagnetic fields, alterations in reflected energy,or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, activator device 116includes an active infrared sensor, a capacitance detection sensor, anoptical detection sensor, a thermal detection sensor, or any combinationthereof. In some embodiments, activator device 116 may include aplurality of sensors. In some embodiments, activator device 116 mayinclude a microphone. In some embodiments, a microphone may enable avoice-control of an automatic faucet mode. In some embodiments, inresponse to sensing a signal via activator device 116, a state ofelectromechanical flow control valve 109 may be modified.

When first manual flow control valve 106 is in an opened state, faucetassembly 100 delivers water from a cold water source to first manualflow control valve 106, the first flow inlet 111, flow outlet 114, fluidline 115, and faucet spout 103. When second manual flow control valve107 is in an opened state, faucet assembly 100 delivers water from a hotwater source to second manual flow control valve 107, second flow inlet112, flow outlet 114, fluid line 115, and faucet spout 103. Whenelectromechanical valve 109 is in an opened state, faucet assembly 100is configured to deliver water from a cold water source to third flowinlet 113, flow outlet 114, fluid line 115, and faucet spout 103.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 may include multiple modes ofoperation. In a first automatic mode, first handle 104 h and secondhandle 105 h may be in an off position in which first manual flowcontrol valve 106 and second manual flow control valve 107 are closed.In a first automatic mode, activator device 116 may control a wateroutput of faucet spout 103. For example, in some embodiments, inresponse to detecting an indication of intended use of faucet assembly100, activator device 116 may enable flow from faucet spout 103. Assuch, a first automatic mode may be referred to as a hands-free mode. Inthe illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 , a first automatic mode includesonly cold water. Activator device 116 may detect intended use when aperson places a hand or object near or in front of it.

In a second manual mode, first handle 104 h, second handle 105 h, orcombination thereof may be moved to an on position via rotation. In anon position, first manual flow control valve 106 or second manual flowcontrol valve 107 may be opened to enable flow of water from faucetspout 103. A second manual mode may be referred to as a standard mode,manual mode, mechanical mode, or the like. In a second manual mode,fluid flow may include hot water, cold water, or hot/cold water mixture.In some embodiments, when entering a second manual mode, activatordevice 116 and a first automatic mode may be disabled.

FIG. 2 provides a cross-section view of a faucet assembly 200, accordingto some embodiments. In this embodiment, a hot water source is connectedto flow director 110 via flow inlet 112 and a cold water source isconnected to flow director 110 via flow inlet 111. In a manual mode,operation of first manual flow control valve 106 and/or second manualflow control valve 107 is configured to supply water through flowdirector 110 to fluid line 115, and to spout 103. In an automatic mode,upon activator device 116 detecting an intended use, controller 108 willinstruct electromechanical valve 109 to open to deliver water throughinlet 252 and or inlet 251 to fluid line 115, and to spout 103. In thisembodiment, an automatic mode is configured to deliver cold water, hotwater, or a hot/cold water mixture. Temperature control assembly 250 isconfigured to control a temperature of water delivered from faucet spout103. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 250 may include aflow mixer that mixes water from a hot water source and a cold watersource to achieve a desired temperature. In some embodiments,temperature control assembly 250 is adjustable to control a temperatureof water from delivered from faucet spout 103 according to a usersetting. In some embodiments, an initial setting of temperature controlassembly 250 may be completed at a time of manufacturing. As such, inoperation of a first automatic mode (i.e., hands-free mode), wateroutput from faucet spout 103 may include a mixture of hot water and coldwater. Thus, modes of operation of faucet assembly 200 are differentthan modes of operation of faucet assembly 100 of FIG. 1 , in that afirst automatic mode for faucet assembly 200 may include mixed hot andcold water instead of cold water only. Depending on settings oftemperature control assembly 250, a first automatic mode for faucetassembly 200 may include cold water, cold water mixed with hot water, orhot water. Temperature control assembly 250 is positioned upstream ofelectromechanical valve 109.

FIG. 3A through FIG. 3L provide schematic diagrams illustrating varioussettings for temperature control assembly 250 of faucet assembly 200,according to some embodiments. Temperature control assembly 250 is shownin four discrete states. It is to be appreciated that settings may bemodified beyond the four states shown (e.g., intermediate positioning).

In FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C, temperature control assembly 250 isset to provide cold water (e.g., a first state). In FIG. 3D, FIG. 3E,and FIG. 3F, temperature control assembly 250 is set to provide mixedhot and cold water (e.g., a second state). In FIG. 3G, FIG. 3H, and FIG.3I, temperature control assembly 250 is set to provide hot water (e.g.,a third state). In FIG. 3J, FIG. 3K, and FIG. 3L, temperature controlassembly 250 is set to prevent flow (e.g., a fourth state). Each set ofFIGS. 3A-3C, 3D-3F, 3G-3I, 3J-3L) includes a side view, a side sectionalview, and a top view of temperature control assembly 250. Temperaturecontrol assembly 250 includes indicator 360, labels 361, fixed body 353,and temperature adjuster (rotatable knob) 354. Temperature controlassembly 250 also includes cold water inlet 355, hot water inlet 356,and outlet 357. To control the temperature of water output from outlet357, temperature adjuster 354 may be rotated about its longitudinalaxis. The rotation controls an amount of water from cold water inlet 355and hot water inlet 356 provided to outlet 357. As a result, atemperature of water provided to and from faucet spout 103 may becontrolled by a user.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, temperature adjuster (rotatable knob) 354 isin an un-rotated position. In an un-rotated position (an angle α withrespect to line L-L′ is 0°), flow is enabled from cold water inlet 355to outlet 357 and flow is prevented from hot water inlet 356 to outlet357. Line L-L′ is perpendicular to cold water inlet 355 and hot waterinlet 356. Outlet 357 would be out of the page in FIG. 3C. This isvisible because passageway 358 aligns with cold water inlet 355 andpassageway 359 does not align with hot water inlet 356.

Referring to FIGS. 3D-3F, the temperature adjuster 354 is in a partiallyrotated position. In a partially rotated position (the angle α withrespect to line L-L′ is between about −55° and 0°), flow is enabled fromcold water inlet 355 and hot water inlet 356 to outlet 357. An amount ofrotation controls an amount of hot water or cold water in the mixture,and thus, an outlet temperature of water. Line L-L′ is perpendicular tocold water inlet 355 and hot water inlet 356. Outlet 357 would be out ofthe page in FIG. 3F. It is to be appreciated that values for angle α areexamples and may vary beyond the stated values. This is visible becausepassageway 358 partially aligns with cold water inlet 355 and passageway359 partially aligns with hot water inlet 356.

Referring to FIGS. 3G-3I, temperature adjuster 354 is in a fully rotatedposition. In a fully rotated position (the angle α with respect to lineL-L′ is about −55°), flow is enabled from hot water inlet 356 to outlet357 and prevented from cold water inlet 355 to outlet 357. An amount ofrotation controls an amount of hot water and cold water in the mixture,and thus, an outlet temperature of water. Line L-L′ is perpendicular tocold water inlet 355 and hot water inlet 356. Outlet 357 would be out ofthe page in FIG. 3I. It is to be appreciated that values for angle α areexamples and may vary beyond the stated values. This is visible becausepassageway 358 does not align with cold water inlet 355 and passageway359 aligns with hot water inlet 356.

Referring to FIGS. 3J-3L, temperature adjuster 354 is in an offposition. In an off position (angle α with respect to line L-L′ is about55°), flow is prevented from cold water inlet 355 and hot water inlet356 to outlet 357. An off position may be used when a user wants todisable an automatic mode of faucet assembly 200. For example, if a userwants to clean without faucet assembly 200 turning on automatically, auser may set temperature control assembly 250 to an off position. It isto be appreciated that other uses besides cleaning are contemplated andwithin the scope of this disclosure. Line L-L′ is perpendicular to coldwater inlet 355 and hot water inlet 356. Outlet 357 would be out of thepage in FIG. 3L. It is to be appreciated that values for angle α areexamples and may vary beyond the stated values. This is visible becausepassageway 358 does not align with cold water inlet 355 and passageway359 does not align with hot water inlet 356.

A temperature adjuster of a temperature of a temperature controlassembly may comprise a knob as shown in the above embodiments. In otherembodiments, a temperature adjuster may comprise a lever, a rotatabledial, and the like.

FIG. 4A provides a schematic diagram of a faucet assembly 400, accordingto some embodiments. In faucet assembly 400, a location ofelectromechanical flow control valve 109 has been moved and flowdirector 465 includes first and second flow inlets 466 and 467. Faucetassembly 400 includes manifold 468 configured to control flow from acold water source depending on whether an automatic mode or a manualmode is utilized. Manifold 468 is shown and described in additionaldetail in FIG. 4B. Shown are hot water inlet 451 and cold water inlet452.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 400 may include multiple modes ofoperation. In a first automatic mode, first handle 104 h and secondhandle 105 h may be in an off position in which first manual flowcontrol valve 106 and second manual flow control valve 107 are closed toprevent water from flowing out of faucet spout 103. In a first automaticmode, activator device 116 may control an output of faucet spout 103.For example, in some embodiments, in response to detecting an indicationof intended use of faucet assembly 400, activator device 116 may enableflow from faucet spout 103. As such, a first automatic mode may bereferred to as a hands-free mode. In the illustrated embodiment, a firstautomatic mode includes only cold water. In a second manual mode, firsthandle 104 h, second handle 105 h, or a combination thereof may be movedto an on position via rotation. In an on position first manual flowcontrol valve 106 or second manual flow control valve 107 may be openedto enable flow of water from faucet spout 103. A second manual mode maybe referred to as a standard mode, manual mode, mechanical mode, or thelike. In a second manual mode, fluid flow may include hot water, coldwater, or a mixture thereof.

FIG. 4B provides a sectional view of manifold 468 of faucet assembly400, according to some embodiments. Manifold 468 may be configured todistribute flow of cold water from a cold water source according to astate of electromechanical valve 109. Manifold 468 includes a firstfluid flow inlet 469 and a second fluid flow inlet 470. First fluid flowinlet 469 is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source.Second fluid flow inlet 470 is fluidly connected to manual flow controlvalve 106 and is configured to receive cold water from a cold watersource via manual flow control valve 106 when valve 106 is in an openedstate. Manifold 468 includes fluid flow outlet 471 to direct cold waterfrom a cold water source (in either an automatic mode or a manual mode)to flow director 465. To selectively control fluid flow in an automaticmode, manifold 468 includes fluid flow inlet 472 and fluid flow outlet473. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid flow inlet 472 may allow coldwater from a cold water source to flow from fluid flow inlet 472 tofluid flow outlet 473 (i.e., flow into the page and then out of thepage). Fluid flow inlet 472 and fluid flow outlet 473 may accordingly bean inlet and outlet end of a flow channel that may be selectivelyenabled or disabled based on an opened or closed state ofelectromechanical flow control valve 109. Thus, in an automatic mode,fluid flow may be from a cold water source to fluid flow inlet 469, tofluid flow inlet 472, from fluid flow outlet 473, from fluid flow outlet471, to flow director 465, to fluid line 115, and out faucet spout 103.In a manual mode, fluid may flow from a cold water source to fluid flowinlet 469, to fluid flow outlet 474, through manual flow control valve106, to fluid flow inlet 470, to fluid flow outlet 471, to flow director465, to fluid line 115, and out faucet spout 103.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic diagram of faucet assembly 500, according tosome embodiments. In some embodiments, faucet assembly 500 may includehousing 580. In some embodiments, a controller 108, electromechanicalflow control valve 109, flow director 110, and temperature controlassembly 250 may all be disposed within housing 580 (and therefore notvisible). In some embodiments, this may simplify installation of faucetassembly 500 as these multiple features are contained within housing580.

In some embodiments, faucet assembly 500 includes an override assemblycomprising cold water switch 581 and hot water switch 582. Cold waterswitch 581 and hot water switch 582 may be electrically connected tocontroller 108. In operation, cold water switch 581 and hot water switch582 may serve to disable a first automatic mode of operation of faucetassembly 500 when one or both of a first handle 104 h (not shown) or asecond handle 105 h (not shown) are turned to an on position. In someembodiments, this switching may disable a first automatic mode ofoperation so that water flow and temperature is set according to theuser's configuration of a first handle 104 h and/or a second handle 105h. For example, rotation of either a first handle 104 h or a secondhandle 105 h may disrupt continuity of a detection circuit. In someembodiments, this may increase a lifetime of an electromechanical flowcontrol valve 109 as it is prevented from unnecessary opening/closingcycles.

Cold water switch 581 includes wires 583 and 584 connected to a powersource, activator device 116, controller 108, and electromechanical flowcontrol valve 109. Similarly, hot water switch 582 includes wires 585and 586 connected to power source, activator device 116, controller 108,and electromechanical flow control valve 109. Cold water switch 581 andhot water switch 582, through the wires 583, 584, 585, 586 may beconnected in series with a power source, activator device 116,controller 108, and electromechanical flow control valve 109. As such,when either first handle 104 h or second handle 105 h is turned and acorresponding cold water switch 581 or hot water switch 582 is opened,electromechanical flow control valve 109 and activator device 116 may bedisabled. In some embodiments, when electromechanical flow control valve109 and activator device 116 are disabled, electromechanical flowcontrol valve 109 may be set to the closed state. Also shown are hotwater inlet 551 and cold water inlet 552. In some embodiments,controller 108 may be configured to disable an automatic mode uponrotating a manual handle to open or close a switch. In otherembodiments, simply opening or closing a switch may break a circuit todisable an automatic mode without any instructions from a controller.Upon restoring a manual handle or handles to a closed position, anautomatic mode may be re-enabled.

FIG. 6A provides a view of faucet assembly 600, according to someembodiments. Assembly 600 is similar to assembly 100, and furthercomprises an override assembly comprising flow sensor 689 positioned inmanifold 690. In this embodiment, when a person activates an automaticmode to deliver water via activator device 116, for instance an IRsensor, electromechanical valve (for example solenoid valve) 109 opensto deliver cold water from a cold water source, through valve 109,through manifold 690, through fluid line 115, and out spout 103. Uponturning handle 104 h and/or 105 h to deliver water in a manual ormechanical mode, water will flow from manual valves 106 and/or 107 inhandle bodies 104 b and 105 b to deliver water through flow director691, and through manifold 690, where water flow is detected by flowsensor 689. Assembly 600 is configured such that, when flow sensor 689detects water flow, an automatic mode is disabled and water may not flowthrough electromechanical valve 109. FIG. 6B provides an expandedcross-section view of manifold 690 and valve 109, which may bepositioned in housing 695. Flow sensor 689, electromechanical valve 109,and activator device 116 may be in electrical communication with a powersource and a controller. Flow director 691 and electromechanical valve109 are fluidly coupled to manifold 690 and are positioned upstream ofmanifold 690. Temperature control assembly 250 is positioned upstream ofelectromechanical valve 109.

FIG. 7A provides a view of faucet assembly 700, according to someembodiments. Assembly 700 is similar to assembly 200, and furthercomprises flow sensor 689 positioned in manifold 690. In thisembodiment, when one activates an automatic mode to deliver water viaactivator device 116 (for instance an IR sensor), electromechanicalvalve (for example solenoid valve) 109, opens to deliver a hot/coldwater mixture from hot and cold water sources through hot water inlet751 and cold water inlet 752 of flow director 792, through valve 109,through manifold 690, through fluid line 115, and out spout 103. Uponturning handle 104 h and/or 105 h to deliver water in a manual ormechanical mode, water will flow from manual valves 106 and/or 107 inhandle bodies 104 b and 105 b to deliver water through flow director691, and through manifold 690, where water flow is detected by flowsensor 689. Assembly 700 is configured such that, when flow sensor 689detects water flow, an automatic mode is disabled and water may not flowthrough electromechanical valve 109. FIG. 7B provides an expandedcross-section view of manifold 690 and valve 109, which may bepositioned in housing 795. Flow sensor 689, electromechanical valve 109,and activator device 116 may be in electrical communication with a powersource and a controller. Temperature of mixed hot/cold water may beadjusted with temperature control assembly 250.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly is disclosed. In someembodiments, a faucet assembly includes a faucet body and a faucetspout. In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a first manualflow control valve that includes an opened state and a closed state. Insome embodiments, a first manual flow control valve is configured to befluidly connected to a cold water source. In some embodiments, a faucetassembly includes a second manual flow control valve having an openedstate and a closed state. In some embodiments, a second manual flowcontrol valve is configured to be fluidly connected to a hot watersource. In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes anelectromechanical flow control valve having an opened state and a closedstate. In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a flow directorthat includes a plurality of flow inlets and a flow outlet. In someembodiments, a first of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a first manual flow control valve. In someembodiments, a second of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a second manual flow control valve. In someembodiments, a third of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a cold water source. In some embodiments, anelectromechanical flow control valve is configured to be fluidlyconnected to a cold water source and the third of a plurality of flowinlets. In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a fluid lineconfigured to be fluidly connected to a flow outlet and a faucet spout.In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes an activator deviceconfigured to be in electrical communication with a controller. In someembodiments, a controller is configured to be in electricalcommunication with an electromechanical flow control valve. In someembodiments, an activator device is configured to control anelectromechanical flow control valve between an opened state and aclosed state. In some embodiments, when a first manual flow controlvalve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured to deliverwater from a cold water source to a first manual flow control valve, afirst of a plurality of flow inlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and afaucet spout. In some embodiments, when a second manual flow controlvalve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured to deliverwater from a hot water source to a second manual flow control valve, asecond of a plurality of flow inlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and afaucet spout. In some embodiments, when an electromechanical flowcontrol valve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured todeliver water from a cold water source to a third of a plurality of flowinlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and a faucet spout.

In some embodiments, an assembly includes an electromechanical flowcontrol valve. In some embodiments, an electromechanical flow controlvalve has an opened state and a closed state. In some embodiments, aflow director includes a plurality of flow inlets and a flow outlet. Insome embodiments, a first of a plurality of flow inlets is configured tobe fluidly connected to a first manual flow control valve. In someembodiments, a second of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a second manual flow control valve. In someembodiments, a third of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a cold water source. In some embodiments, anelectromechanical flow control valve is configured to be fluidlyconnected to a cold water source and to a third of a plurality of flowinlets. In some embodiments, an electromechanical flow control valve isconfigured to be controlled between an opened state and a closed state.In some embodiments, when a first manual flow control valve is in anopened state, an assembly is configured to deliver water from a coldwater source to a first manual flow control valve, a first of aplurality of flow inlets, and a flow outlet. In some embodiments, when asecond manual flow control valve is in an opened state, an assembly isconfigured to deliver water from a hot water source to a second manualflow control valve, a second of a plurality of flow inlets, and a flowoutlet. In some embodiments, when an electromechanical flow controlvalve is in an opened state, an assembly is configured to deliver waterfrom the cold water source to a third of a plurality of flow inlets, anda flow outlet.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a faucet body having afaucet spout. In some embodiments, a first manual flow control valve hasan opened state and a closed state. In some embodiments, a first manualflow control valve is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold watersource. In some embodiments, a second manual flow control valve has anopened state and a closed state.

In some embodiments, a second manual flow control valve is configured tobe fluidly connected to a hot water source. In some embodiments, anelectromechanical flow control valve has an opened state and a closedstate. In some embodiments, a flow director includes a plurality of flowinlets and a flow outlet. In some embodiments, a first of a plurality offlow inlets is configured to be fluidly connected to a first manual flowcontrol valve and to an electromechanical flow control valve. In someembodiments, a second of a plurality of flow inlets is configured to befluidly connected to a second manual flow control valve. In someembodiments, a fluid line is configured to be fluidly connected to aflow outlet and a faucet spout. In some embodiments, an activator deviceis configured to be in electrical communication with a controller. Insome embodiments, a controller is configured to be in electricalcommunication with an electromechanical flow control valve. In someembodiments, an activator device is configured to control anelectromechanical flow control valve between the opened state and aclosed state. In some embodiments, when a first manual flow controlvalve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured to deliverwater from a cold water source to a first manual flow control valve, afirst of a plurality of flow inlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and afaucet spout. In some embodiments, when a second manual flow controlvalve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured to deliverwater from a hot water source to a second manual flow control valve, asecond of a plurality of flow inlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and afaucet spout. In some embodiments, when an electromechanical flowcontrol valve is in an opened state, a faucet assembly is configured todeliver water from a cold water source to a manifold, a first of aplurality of flow inlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and a faucetspout.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a temperature controlassembly configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water source, ahot water source, and a third of a plurality of flow inlets. In someembodiments, a temperature control assembly is disposed in a locationconfigured to receive water from a cold water source and water from ahot water source. In some embodiments, a temperature control assembly isconfigured to provide a mixture of water from a cold water source andwater from a hot water source to a third of a plurality of flow inlets.

In some embodiments, a temperature control assembly includes an offposition. In some embodiments, when a temperature control assembly is inan off position, an electromechanical flow control valve is disabled.

In some embodiments, a temperature control assembly is configured tocontrol a temperature of water in an automatic mode. In someembodiments, an activator device is disposed in and/or on the faucetbody. In some embodiments, an electromechanical flow control valve maybe a solenoid valve.

In some embodiments, a controller is configured to be electricallyconnected with a power source. In some embodiments, a power source maybe a battery. In some embodiments, to power source may be an alternatingcurrent (AC) power source.

In some embodiments, an activator device is configured to be in wirelesscommunication with a controller. In some embodiments, an activatordevice is configured to be in wired communication with a controller.

In some embodiments, a controller is configured to be in wirelesscommunication with an electromechanical flow control valve. In someembodiments, a controller is configured to be in wired communicationwith an electromechanical flow control valve.

In some embodiments, an activator device may be a sensor. In someembodiments, an activator device may be a sensor configured to detectmotion, presence of an object, absence of an object, sound, temperaturechanges, light, electromagnetic fields, alterations in reflected energy,or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, an activator device maybe an active infrared (IR) sensor, a capacitance detection sensor, anoptical detection sensor, a thermal detection sensor, or any combinationthereof. In some embodiments, an activator device may include aplurality of sensors. I n some embodiments, an activator device mayinclude a microphone to enable a faucet assembly to be voice-activated.

In some embodiments, a first manual flow control valve and/or a secondmanual flow control valve may be a mechanical flow control valve. Insome embodiments, a first manual flow control valve and/or a secondmanual flow control valve may comprise a switch configured to be inelectrical communication with a controller. In some embodiments, inresponse to a first manual flow control valve and/or a second manualflow control valve being in an open position, a switch is configured tobreak electrical communication with a controller. In some embodiments,in response to a break in electrical communication with a controller, anelectromechanical flow control valve may be disabled and set to theclosed state. Upon a handle being restored to a closed position, acircuit is closed to re-enable the automatic mode.

In some embodiments, a switch associated with a manual flow controlvalve may be in electrical communication with an electromechanical valveand/or an actuator device. Upon rotation of a handle associated with amanual flow control valve, a circuit associated with a switch may bebroken, thereby disabling an electromechanical valve and/or an actuatordevice, and thereby disabling an automatic mode (without any signal orinstruction from a controller). Upon a handle being restored to a closedposition, a circuit is closed to re-enable the automatic mode.

In some embodiments, when a first manual flow control valve and/or asecond manual flow control valve are in an opened state, a faucetassembly is in a mechanical manual mode. In some embodiments, when anelectromechanical flow control valve is in an opened state, a faucetassembly is in an automatic mode. A faucet assembly manual mode andautomatic mode may be independently operated.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes a faucet body having afaucet spout. In some embodiments, a first manual flow control valveincludes an opened state and a closed state and is configured to befluidly connected to a cold water source. In some embodiments, a secondmanual flow control valve includes an opened state and a closed stateand is configured to be fluidly connected to a hot water source. In someembodiments, an electromechanical flow control valve includes an openedstate and a closed state. In some embodiments, a flow director includesa plurality of flow inlets. In some embodiments, a first of a pluralityof flow inlets is configured to be fluidly connected to a first manualflow control valve. In some embodiments, a second of a plurality of flowinlets is configured to be fluidly connected to a second manual flowcontrol valve. In some embodiments, a third of a plurality of flowinlets is configured to be fluidly connected to an electromechanicalflow control valve and is configured to be fluidly connected to a coldwater source. In some embodiments, a flow director includes a flowoutlet. In some embodiments, a fluid line is configured to be fluidlyconnected to a flow outlet and a faucet spout. In some embodiments, anactivator device is configured to be in electrical communication with acontroller. In some embodiments, a controller is configured to be inelectrical communication with an electromechanical flow control valveand is configured to control an electromechanical flow control valvebetween an opened state and a closed state. In some embodiments, when afirst manual flow control valve is in an opened state, a faucet assemblyis configured to deliver water from a cold water source to a firstmanual flow control valve, a first of a plurality of flow inlets, a flowoutlet, a fluid line, and a faucet spout. In some embodiments, when asecond manual flow control valve is in an opened state, a faucetassembly is configured to deliver water from a hot water source to asecond manual flow control valve, a second of a plurality of flowinlets, a flow outlet, a fluid line, and a faucet spout. In someembodiments, when an electromechanical flow control valve is in anopened state, a faucet assembly is configured to deliver water from acold water source to a third of a plurality of flow inlets, a flowoutlet, a fluid line, and a faucet spout. In some embodiments, a faucetassembly includes a temperature control assembly fluidly connected to acold water source and a hot water source, and a third of a plurality offlow inlets. In some embodiments, a temperature control assembly isdisposed in a location configured to receive water from a cold watersource, and water from a hot water source. In some embodiments, atemperature control assembly is configured to provide a hot/cold watermixture from a cold water source and a hot water source to a third of aplurality of flow inlets.

Some embodiments of this disclosure are directed to faucet assembliescapable of operating in different modes, including a hands-free(automatic) mode and a manual (standard) mode. Multiple modes can, forexample, allow a user to automatically turn on water from a faucetassembly without touching the faucet assembly or, alternatively, to turnone or more handles to turn on water and control a temperature andflowrate of the water.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly includes an activator device inelectrical communication with an electromechanical flow control valve.In some embodiments, an activator device, or electronic activatordevice, is present in and/or on a faucet body. Electrical communicationmay be via a wire (e.g., electric cable) connected to an activatordevice and an electromechanical flow control valve. In some embodiments,a wire may also be connected to a power source such as a battery. Insome embodiments, electrical communication may be wireless. Examples ofsuitable wireless communication include, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi,near field communication, Bluetooth®, Zig Bee, any combination thereof,or the like.

In some embodiments, an activator device may be present on a front,back, or side of a faucet body. In some embodiments, an activator devicemay be present on and/or in a handle body faucet assembly. In someembodiments, an activator device may be separate from a faucet body anda faucet assembly.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly may include one or more indicatorlights configured to display a status of the water (e.g., a temperatureor the like) or a status of a power source (e.g., a battery, analternating current (AC) source, or any combination thereof).

An indicator light may be configured to provide light of differentcolors (e.g. white, blue, green, red, orange, etc.) indicative of awater temperature, indicative of a power source being good or no-goodand requiring replacing—or indicating that a battery has a certainexpected life remaining, for example 180 days, 150 days, 120 days, 90days, 60 days, 45 days, 30 days, 15 days, 10 days, or 5 days.

In some embodiments, a faucet assembly in use may be positioned on adeck (e.g., a countertop).

Following are some non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure.

In a first embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly comprising afaucet body; a faucet spout; a first manual flow control valve; a secondmanual flow control valve; an electromechanical valve; a flow director;a controller; and an activator device, wherein the first manual flowcontrol valve is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold watersource and the flow director, and to deliver cold water to the faucetspout, the second flow control valve is configured to be fluidlyconnected to a hot water source and the flow director, and to deliverhot water to the faucet spout, the electromechanical valve is configuredto be fluidly connected to a cold water source and the flow director,the electromechanical valve, the controller, and the activator deviceare configured to be in electrical communication, and the controller isconfigured to receive a signal from the activator device indicating ithas been activated, and to send a signal to the electromechanical valveto open to deliver cold water to the faucet spout.

In a second embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to thefirst embodiment, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to beindependently operated in a manual mode via operation the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves, and to be independently operated inan automatic mode via operation of the electromechanical valve. In athird embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to the secondembodiment, wherein the faucet assembly is configured such that theautomatic mode is disabled upon operation of the first and/or secondmanual flow control valves.

In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to thethird embodiment, comprising an override assembly associated with thefirst and/or second manual flow control valves, wherein the overrideassembly is in electrical communication with the controller, uponoperation of the first and/or second manual flow control valves, theoverride assembly is configured to communicate the manual valveoperation to the controller, and the controller is configured to disablethe electromechanical valve and/or the activator device upon receivingthe communication from the override assembly, or the override assemblyis in electrical communication with the electromechanical valve and/orwith the activator device, upon operation of the first and/or secondmanual flow control valves, the override assembly is configured todisable the electromechanical valve and/or the activator device.

In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to thefourth embodiment, wherein the override assembly comprises a flow sensorin electrical communication with the controller, upon operation of thefirst and/or second manual flow control valves, the flow sensor isconfigured to detect water flow from the first and/or second manual flowcontrol valves, and to communicate the water flow to the controller, andthe controller is configured to disable the electromechanical valve uponreceiving the communication from the flow sensor.

In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to thefourth embodiment, wherein the override assembly comprises an electricswitch in electrical communication with the controller, upon operationof the first and/or second manual flow control valves, the electricswitch is configured to detect movement of a faucet handle associatedwith the first and second manual flow control valves, and to communicatethe faucet handle movement to the controller, and the controller isconfigured to disable the electromechanical valve upon receiving thecommunication from the switch.

In a seventh embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to thefourth embodiment, wherein the override assembly comprises an electricswitch in electrical communication with the electromechanical valveand/or the activator device, upon operation of the first and/or secondmanual flow control valves, the electric switch is configured to break acircuit, and the electromechanical valve and/or the activator aredisabled upon breaking the circuit.

In an eighth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to anyof the preceding embodiments, comprising a temperature control assemblycomprising a temperature adjuster, wherein the temperature controlassembly is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water sourceand to a hot water source, the temperature control assembly is fluidlyconnected to the electromechanical valve, the electromechanical valve isconfigured to deliver a hot/cold water mixture to the faucet spout, andthe temperature adjuster is configured to adjust a ratio of hot waterand cold water in the hot/cold water mixture.

In a ninth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toembodiment 8, wherein the temperature control assembly is configured tobe positioned upstream from the electromechanical valve. In a tenthembodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to embodiments 8 or9, wherein the temperature adjuster is configured to be set manually. Inan eleventh embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to anyof embodiments 8 to wherein the temperature adjuster comprises an offposition, wherein an automatic mode is disabled. In an embodiment, atemperature adjuster comprises a rotatable lever, a rotatable dial, or arotatable knob.

In a twelfth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to anyof the preceding embodiments, wherein the activator device is positionedon or in the faucet body. In a thirteenth embodiment, disclosed is afaucet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, whereinthe activator device is configured to be in wired or wireless electroniccommunication with the controller.

In a fourteenth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toany of the preceding embodiments, wherein the controller is configuredto be in wired or wireless electronic communication with theelectromechanical valve.

In a fifteenth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toany of the preceding embodiments, wherein the activator device comprisesone or more of a motion sensor, a presence sensor, or a microphone. In asixteenth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to any ofthe preceding embodiments, wherein the activator device comprises one ormore of an infrared sensor, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, or athermal detection sensor.

In a seventeenth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toany of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow director isconfigured to be downstream of the electromechanical valve.

In an eighteenth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toany of the preceding embodiments, wherein the faucet assembly isconfigured to be positioned on a deck, and wherein the flow director isconfigured to be positioned below the deck. In a nineteenth embodiment,disclosed is a faucet assembly according to embodiment 18, wherein theelectromechanical valve is configured to be positioned below the deck.In a twentieth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toembodiments 18 or 19, comprising a housing configured to be positionedbelow the deck, wherein one or more of the controller, theelectromechanical valve, or the flow director are disposed within thehousing. In a twenty-first embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assemblyaccording to embodiment 20, wherein a temperature control assembly is atleast partially disposed within the housing. In a twenty-secondembodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according to embodiment 21,wherein a temperature adjuster is configured to protrude from thehousing and to be manipulated from a housing exterior.

In a twenty-third embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly accordingto any of the preceding embodiments, comprising a manifold. In atwenty-fourth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly according toembodiment 23, wherein the manifold is configured to be positioned belowa deck. In a twenty-fifth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assemblyaccording to embodiments 23 or 24, wherein the electromechanical valveis coupled to the manifold, and wherein the manifold is configured todeliver cold water to the faucet spout in an automatic mode.

In a twenty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a faucet assembly accordingto any of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the flow director and theelectromechanical valve are independently coupled to a manifold andpositioned upstream of the manifold. In a twenty-seventh embodiment,disclosed is a faucet assembly according to embodiment 26, wherein themanifold comprises a flow sensor fluidly connected to the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves. In a twenty-eighth embodiment,disclosed is a faucet assembly according to embodiments 26 or 27,comprising a temperature control assembly positioned upstream of theelectromechanical valve.

When elements are configured to receive from or configured to deliver toor provide fluid to another element, or when elements are coupled toother elements regarding fluid flow, the elements are in fluidcommunication or fluidly coupled with each other.

The terms “coupled” or “connected” may mean that an element is “attachedto” or “associated with” another element. Coupled or connected may meandirectly coupled or coupled through one or more other elements. Anelement may be coupled to an element through two or more other elementsin a sequential manner or a non-sequential manner. The term “via” inreference to “via an element” may mean “through” or “by” an element.Coupled or connected or “associated with” may also mean elements notdirectly or indirectly attached, but that they “go together” in that onemay function together with the other.

The term “towards” in reference to a of point of attachment, may mean atexactly that location or point or, alternatively, may mean closer tothat point than to another distinct point, for example “towards acenter” means closer to a center than to an edge.

The term “like” means similar and not necessarily exactly like. Forinstance “ring-like” means generally shaped like a ring, but notnecessarily perfectly circular.

The articles “a” and “an” herein refer to one or to more than one (e.g.at least one) of the grammatical object. Any ranges cited herein areinclusive.

Features described in connection with one embodiment of the disclosuremay be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if notexplicitly stated.

Embodiments of the disclosure include any and all parts and/or portionsof the embodiments, claims, description and figures. Embodiments of thedisclosure also include any and all combinations and/or sub-combinationsof embodiments.

1. A faucet assembly comprising a faucet body; a faucet spout; a firstmanual flow control valve; a second manual flow control valve; anelectromechanical valve; a flow director; a temperature controlassembly; a controller; and an activator device, wherein the firstmanual flow control valve is configured to be fluidly connected to acold water source and the flow director, and to deliver cold water tothe faucet spout, the second flow control valve is configured to befluidly connected to a hot water source and the flow director, and todeliver hot water to the faucet spout, the temperature control assemblyis configured to be fluidly connected to the cold water source and tothe hot water source, the temperature control assembly is fluidlyconnected to the electromechanical valve, the electromechanical valve isconfigured to be fluidly connected to the cold water source, to the hotwater source, and to the flow director, and to deliver a hot/cold watermixture to the faucet spout, the electromechanical valve, thecontroller, and the activator device are configured to be in electricalcommunication, and the controller is configured to receive a signal fromthe activator device indicating it has been activated, and to send asignal to the electromechanical valve to open to deliver the hot/coldwater mixture to the faucet spout, and wherein the faucet assembly isconfigured to be independently operated in a manual mode via operationof the first and/or second manual flow control valves, and to beindependently operated in an automatic mode via operation of theelectromechanical valve.
 2. The faucet assembly according to claim 1,wherein the faucet assembly is configured such that the automatic modeis disabled upon manual operation of the first and/or second manual flowcontrol valves.
 3. The faucet assembly according to claim 2, comprisingan override assembly associated with the first and/or second manual flowcontrol valves, wherein the override assembly is in electricalcommunication with the controller, upon operation of the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves, the override assembly is configuredto communicate the manual valve operation to the controller, and thecontroller is configured to disable the electromechanical valve and/orthe activator device upon receiving the communication from the overrideassembly, or the override assembly is in electrical communication withthe electromechanical valve and/or with the activator device, and uponoperation of the first and/or second manual flow control valves, theoverride assembly is configured to disable the electromechanical valveand/or the activator device.
 4. The faucet assembly according to claim3, wherein the override assembly comprises a flow sensor in electricalcommunication with the controller, upon operation of the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves, the flow sensor is configured todetect water flow from the first and/or second manual flow controlvalves, and to communicate the water flow to the controller, and thecontroller is configured to disable the electromechanical valve uponreceiving the communication from the flow sensor.
 5. The faucet assemblyaccording to claim 3, wherein the override assembly comprises anelectric switch in electrical communication with the controller, uponoperation of the first and/or second manual flow control valves, theelectric switch is configured to detect movement of a faucet handleassociated with the first and second manual flow control valves, and tocommunicate the faucet handle movement to the controller, and thecontroller is configured to disable the electromechanical valve uponreceiving the communication from the switch.
 6. The faucet assemblyaccording to claim 3, wherein the override assembly comprises anelectric switch in electrical communication with the electromechanicalvalve and/or the activator device, upon operation of the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves, the electric switch is configured tobreak a circuit, and the electromechanical valve and/or the activatorare disabled upon breaking the circuit.
 7. The faucet assembly accordingto claim 1, wherein the temperature control assembly comprises atemperature adjuster, the temperature adjuster is-configured to adjust aratio of hot water and cold water in the hot/cold water mixture.
 8. Thefaucet assembly according to claim 7, wherein the temperature controlassembly is configured to be positioned upstream from theelectromechanical valve, the temperature adjuster is configured to beset manually, and the temperature adjuster comprises an off position,wherein when in the off position, the automatic mode is disabled.
 9. Thefaucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the activator devicecomprises one or more of a motion sensor, a presence sensor, or amicrophone.
 10. (canceled)
 11. The faucet assembly according to claim 1,wherein the faucet assembly is configured to be positioned on a deck,and wherein the flow director, the electromechanical valve, and thetemperature control assembly are configured to be positioned below thedeck.
 12. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, comprising ahousing, wherein one or more of the controller, the electromechanicalvalve, or the flow director are disposed within the housing.
 13. Thefaucet assembly according to claim 12, wherein the temperature controlassembly is at least partially disposed within the housing andconfigured to protrude from the housing so as to be manipulated from ahousing exterior.
 14. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, whereinthe flow director is configured to be downstream of theelectromechanical valve. (original) The faucet assembly according toclaim 1, comprising a manifold.
 16. The faucet assembly according toclaim 15, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to be positioned ona deck, and wherein the manifold is configured to be positioned belowthe deck.
 17. The faucet assembly according to claim 15, wherein theelectromechanical valve is fluidly coupled to the manifold, and whereinthe manifold is configured to deliver the hot/cold water mixture to thefaucet spout in the automatic mode.
 18. The faucet assembly according toclaim 17, wherein the flow director and the electromechanical valve areindependently coupled to the manifold and positioned upstream of themanifold.
 19. The faucet assembly according to claim 18, wherein themanifold comprises a flow sensor fluidly connected to the first and/orsecond manual flow control valves.
 20. The faucet assembly according toclaim 18, wherein the temperature control assembly is positionedupstream of the electromechanical valve.
 21. The faucet assemblyaccording to claim 18, comprising a housing, wherein theelectromechanical valve and the manifold are disposed within thehousing.